How We Work
We work with rural communities to organise collective action, strengthen village institutions, and sustain shared systems.
Rural communities build durable change through collective effort. Systems last when people organise, make decisions together, and take responsibility for what they build.
The MANTRA Approach
The five principles of the Movement and Action Network for Transformation of Rural Areas (MANTRA) form the basis for Gram Vikas's engagement with its community partners. Developed through decades of work on water and sanitation, MANTRA now guides how Gram Vikas works across all aspects of its programmes.
All-or-None
Every household participates and contributes.
The 100% inclusion commitment means the entire village works towards a common purpose.
Share Costs
Users contribute to building and maintaining the facilities they use. shared infrastructure.
This stake in the outcome ensures people take responsibility and hold their institutions accountable.
Take Responsibility
Community members lead the process.
They organise meetings, build agreements, manage contributions, and oversee implementation and monitoring. Village institutions maintain the systems created.
Equitable Participation
Women and socially marginalised groups take part in village decisions.
Their participation strengthens representation and helps benefits reach the entire community.
Financial Sustainability
Community institutions plan for the long-term upkeep of what is built.
User groups, Gram Panchayat federations, and other local bodies establish funds and rules so facilities continue to serve future generations.
MANTRA in Practice
See how communities come together to build and manage their own water and sanitation systems through the MANTRA approach.
Our Priorities
We strengthen people’s capabilities to act on six priorities for rural resilience.
Climate Resilience
Restoring water, land, and forests to secure the natural foundations of village life.
Enterprises & Markets
Expanding income and enterprise opportunities where people live and work.
Health & Wellbeing
Advancing safe water, sanitation, and nutrition for healthier lives.
Youth & Opportunities
Equipping young people to learn, earn, and lead.
Local Governance
Enabling Panchayats and village institutions to act for collective good.
Equity & Inclusion
Ensuring everyone has a stake and a voice in progress.
